AN investigation has found a motocross incident, which left a man with serious head injuries, was a tragic accident.

Stephen Woodiwiss, of Cedar Way, Tiptree, had to be airlifted to hospital following the crash in Marks Tey last month.

The 47-year-old had been taking part in an event organised by the Pre-65 Motocross Club.

His bike was involved in a collision with a fellow competitor’s.

The accident left both men needing medical treatment. St John Ambulance volunteers at the site on the day were praised for their quick actions, before the casualties were taken to hospital for treatment.

A full investigation was carried out by Stanway Road Policing Unit, which decided to take no action, but referred it to Colchester Council’s Health and safety officers to review.

Colin Daines, from the council’s environmental health department, said: “The traffic officers carried out a full investigation into the incident.

“Their opinion is the circumstances appear to be a complete accident, in what is a quite dangerous sport.

“The event was a well-organised one, by a well-respected group and police have no reason to believe this was anything other than an accident and was certainly not down to any shortcomings on the part of that organisation.”

Mr Daines added: “We are quite satisfied with the investigation the police made and that it was an accident, pure and simple.”

He said no further action would be taken by the council.

Mike Westley, from the Pre-65 Motocross Club, said: “It is understood the Health and Safety Executive are content the incident was purely a racing accident and there were no breaches of any protocols or procedures.”

Mr Westley added Mr Woodiwiss was believed to be making “excellent progress”.